(4/5) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (4/5) New Orleans Pelicans
This would be the ideal first-round matchup for the Wolves for many reasons — one of which being the Wolves won’t have to worry about DeMarcus Cousins in addition to Anthony Davis.
It goes beyond the 4-0 season sweep that the Wolves own over the Pelicans; they have dominated most aspects of each game every time.
The Wolves have averaged 114.5 points per game in the four meetings against the Pelicans. They have held New Orleans to 101.3 points per game over four games, and have held the Pelicans to a 43.2 shooting percentage from the field and a 28.1 3-point percentage.
The Wolves themselves have averaged 51.6 percent shooting from the field and 40.5 percent shooting from three in their four games against the Pelicans.
But it doesn’t stop there. The Wolves have out rebounded the Davis-led Pelicans by an average of 8.2 per game (47-38.8).
Both teams have averaged the same amount of turnovers per game (16.3) but the Wolves have averaged more steals per game (10.5 to 8.8).
For once, home court may not dictate the Wolves destiny against the Pelicans. Unlike against most teams, the Wolves proved they can beat the Pelicans at home and on the road.
If there is one team to hope for in round one, keep hoping for the Pelicans.